Meaning: This quote by Kerry King, the renowned guitarist for the heavy metal band Slayer, reflects the importance of the duration of a performance from the perspective of the performer. King's statement communicates the significance of the length of a concert in shaping the overall experience for both the artist and the audience. The quote suggests that a longer performance duration allows for a more fulfilling and immersive experience, providing a sense of continuity and engagement for both the band and the fans.

For musicians and performers, the duration of a concert holds significant importance. A longer performance not only allows for a more comprehensive showcase of the artist's repertoire but also enables them to establish a deeper connection with the audience. Extended stage time provides the opportunity for artists to fully engage in their craft, explore improvisation, and create a more dynamic and immersive experience for concertgoers. Additionally, a longer set allows musicians to truly settle into their performance, finding their rhythm and establishing a powerful and sustained energy that can captivate the audience.

From the audience's perspective, a longer concert duration can enhance the overall value and satisfaction of the live music experience. It offers concertgoers the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the artist's music, providing a more comprehensive and fulfilling experience. A longer set allows fans to fully absorb the artist's performance, creating a sense of continuity and connection with the music and the performers. It also offers the chance to explore a wider range of the artist's work, catering to diverse fan preferences and ensuring a more inclusive and satisfying experience for all attendees.

The quote also touches upon the contrast between the experiences of performing in the United States and touring internationally. King's mention of their experience playing in the States, where they had shorter set times, highlights the impact of performance duration on the overall touring experience. The shift to longer sets while touring internationally, as expressed in the quote, signifies a return to a more traditional and fulfilling touring experience for the band. This suggests that the duration of a performance not only impacts the individual concert experience but also influences the broader context of touring and performing for musicians.

In a broader context, the quote by Kerry King reflects the inherent value of concert duration in shaping the live music experience. It emphasizes the significance of providing both artists and audiences with a more immersive, engaging, and fulfilling experience through longer performance durations. The quote serves as a reminder of the importance of considering the impact of concert length on the overall enjoyment and value of live music performances, both for the performers and the fans.